# New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers preseason matchup

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-york-jets-and-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-matchup
> Updated: 2026-08-21T19:00:00.000Z. Sources: 24. Developments: 2.

The New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers met for an NFL preseason game on August 21, 2026, resulting in a 17-0 shutout victory for the Jets. This marked the Steelers’ first preseason shutout since 2016.

Jets quarterback Geno Smith led an efficient opening 10-play, 69-yard drive, completing all seven of his passes for 65 yards, including a touchdown pass to Jelani Woods. This performance served as a preview of the offense following Smith’s return from an ankle injury. The Jets' defense remained dominant, recording two interceptions and keeping the Steelers out of the end zone.

The Steelers' offense faced significant challenges. Quarterback Will Howard, making his first career start, completed 10 of 15 passes for 74 yards before throwing two interceptions, both intended for wide receiver Roman Wilson. These were intercepted by Jets defenders Andre Cisco and Samuel Womack III. Drew Allar followed in relief, completing 11 of 23 attempts for 110 yards while facing significant pressure and being sacked three times.

Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy expressed frustration regarding “execution details” and “missed connections” during the loss. Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio noted that performance issues extended to the offensive line, the running game, and pass protection. Despite the struggles, reports indicate the Steelers intend to keep both Will Howard and Drew Allar on their 53-man roster. This move could result in the team carrying four quarterbacks into the regular season, alongside starter Aaron Rodgers and veteran Mason Rudolph. The game also highlighted ongoing trade speculation regarding Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr.

## Claims

- Multiple NFL teams are inquiring about the availability of Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. in a potential trade. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Joey Porter Jr. is entering the final year of his rookie contract. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Porter is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to a back injury. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Steelers general manager Omar Khan stated the team does not conduct contract negotiations once the regular season begins. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- In the 2025 campaign, Porter allowed a 56.2 passer rating when targeted. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-21: Pittsburgh Steelers host New York Jets in NFL preseason game

The Pittsburgh Steelers host the New York Jets in an NFL preseason game at Acrisure Stadium on Friday, August 21, at 7 p.m. ET, broadcast on NFL Network.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pittsburgh-steelers-host-new-york-jets-in-nfl-preseason-game

### 2026-08-21: New York Jets shut out Pittsburgh Steelers 17-0 in preseason

The New York Jets shut out the Pittsburgh Steelers 17-0 in a preseason game, highlighted by a perfect touchdown drive from Geno Smith and two interceptions thrown by Steelers quarterback Will Howard.

21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pittsburgh-steelers-cb-joey-porter-jr-subject-of-nfl-trade-rumors

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Cite as: New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers preseason matchup. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-york-jets-and-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-matchup
